Albumin: This test is used to measure the level of albumin (a protein in the blood) and aides in the diagnosis of liver disease.

ALP or Alk-Phos = Serum Alkaline Phosphatase Test: This test is used to measure the level of alkaline phosphatase (an enzyme) in the blood. Alkaline phosphatase is found in many tissues, with the highest concentrations in the liver, biliary tract, and bone. This test may be performed to assess liver functioning and to detect liver lesions that may cause biliary obstruction, such as tumors or abscesses.

AAT: This test measures the level of alanine aminotransferase (an enzyme found predominantly in the liver) that is released into the bloodstream after acute liver cell damage. This test may be performed to assess liver function, and/or to evaluate treatment of acute liver disease, such as hepatitis.

AFP = Alpha-Fetoprotein Test: Alpha-fetoprotein (a specific blood protein) is produced by fetal tissue and by tumors. This test may be performed to monitor the effectiveness of therapy in certain cancers, such as hepatomas.

AST or SGOT = Aspartate Transaminase Test: This test measures the level of aspartate transaminase (an enzyme that is found in the liver, kidneys, pancreas, heart, skeletal muscle, and red blood cells) that is released into the bloodstream after liver or heart problems.

Bili: This test measures the levels of bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is produced by the liver and is excreted in the bile. Elevated levels of bilirubin may indicate an obstruction of bile flow or a problem in the processing of bile by the liver.

GGTP or GGT = Gamma-Glutamyl Transpeptidase Test:This test measures the level of gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (an enzyme that is produced in the liver, pancreas, and biliary tract). This test is often performed to assess liver function, to provide information about liver diseases, and to detect alcohol ingestion.

PT/PTT: The prothrombin time test measures how long it takes for blood to clot. Blood clotting requires vitamin K and a protein that is made by the liver. Prolonged clotting may indicate liver disease or other deficiencies in specific clotting factors. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------SCANS AND PROCEDURES:

Cirrhosis: An abnormal liver condition characterized by irreversible scarring of the liver.

Coma: A state of deep unconsciousness.

Edema: An excessive accumulation of serous fluid in tissue spaces or a body cavity.

Esophageal Varices: Abnormally enlarged veins in the lower part of your esophagus, the tube that connects your throat and stomach. These veins may rupture and bleed.

Hepatic Encephalopathy: Toxic substances normally removed by the liver accumulate in the blood and impair the function of brain cells.

Hepatitis: Injury to the liver characterized by the presence of inflammatory cells in the tissue.

GI doctor: A gastroenterologist who specializes in diagnosing and treating liver diseases and gastrointestinal problems.

Jaundice: Yellowish discoloration of the whites of the eyes, skin, and mucous membranes caused by deposition of bile salts in these tissues. Dark yellow to orange urine will occur and clay colored stools.

Lethargy: State or disorder characterized by overpowering fatigue, drowsiness or sleep.

Liver Failure: The appearance of severe complications rapidly after the first signs of liver disease, and indicates that the liver has sustained severe damage.

Portal Hypertension: A syndrome characterized by raised blood pressure in the portal vein entering the liver. Portal hypertension can be associated with pulmonary hypertension where it is termed Porto-pulmonary Hypertension.

Get copies of all medical records. Here are some different ideas for record keeping.

Participate in your hospital's patient portal.

Put records on a thumb drive.

3 Ring Binder A calendar with upcoming appointments in front.1. Medical proxy: Who and what their expectations are for care.2. Insurance information: Photo copies with front and back of cards.3. Prescriptions/Dosages: Make extra copies to hand to EMTs and ER's. Keep updated. ex: drug removed because of adverse effects.4. Copies of Labs. 5. Admission and discharge summaries. 6.Chart for blood sugars and insulin amounts given, blood pressure, temperatures.In the back pouch you can keep a copy of prescription print out's with side effects. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------Post Edited By Moderator (themiz) : 9/19/2014 3:55:13 PM (GMT-6)themiz-Forum Moderator-HepatitisWife of themister, a fine man living with ESLD. Transplant list-2013

“Out of suffering have emerged the strongest souls; the most massive characters are seared with scars.” Kahlil Gibran